Keep Longwood Leaders

Opinion, Our Views - Election 2000

Politics Aside, The City Is Progressing. No Change Is Needed.

October 15, 2000

Little has happened in the current campaign to change Longwood's reputation as one of the county's most politically contentious places. Two entrenched factions roll out with each election, at times using questionable tactics in an attempt to destroy the opposition.

This campaign has been no different. Political-action committees are involved on both sides, grinding out material to boost their own candidates or raise dark questions about the opposition.

While there is some validity to charges that the current administration stifles dissent, things generally have been going pretty well in Longwood.

There seems no compelling reason for voters to make a change on Nov. 7. Thus, this newspaper recommends another term for Mayor Paul Lovestrand in District 5 and City Commissioner Steve Miller in District 3.

Their opponents, Craig Van Hooven in District 5 and George McKenzie Jr. in District 3, have not made a strong case for change. Their campaigns echo more petty politics than a substantive debate on the issues.

All candidates support enhancing the city's historic district, an asset that is too often overlooked in defining Longwood's character. The historic district occasionally attracts people from outside the city, but it can be made an even more appealing destination through nurturing and good planning.

The proposed new community center, which is designed to fit architecturally in the historic district, is a good start.

The current widening of County Road 427 puts Longwood in the right position to make the historic district an inviting gateway to the city.

Just look what Altamonte Springs has done in converting Cranes Roost Park from a borrow pit into a potential city center. Longwood's historic district has the same promise if developed and promoted properly.

Other issues include a road-paving program where affected residents pay 40 percent and the city 60 percent to pave all of Longwood's roads. The policy also gives residents 15 years to pay their share -- interest-free.

Mr. Lovestrand, a financial consultant and stockbroker, also points to the budget surplus the city enjoys. The mayor credits budget cuts he engineered for the improved financial outlook.

Mr. Miller, a sales manager, says he is running again to finish the many projects he has helped to start and to bring Longwood into the new century.

Neither Mr. Van Hooven, a sales manager, nor Mr. McKenzie, a businessman, offers a strong case for change on the City Commission.

In the general election in Longwood, the Sentinel endorses Paul Lovestrand in District 5 and Steve Miller in District 3. The mayor is elected by the commission.